Pam of Pam’s Paperbacks announces retirement, store closing

December 26, 2011
WILBRAHAM  Pam Aronson, owner of Pam’s Paperbacks in Wilbraham, announced on Dec. 21 that she will be retiring at the end of January, and closing her bookstore.
Beginning Dec. 27, all new books will be sold at 50 percent off the cover price, and all used books will be 70 percent off, through Jan. 31, 2012.
Inventory includes more than 20,000 used paperbacks; 5,000 new adult, children’s and young-adult books. There are also many educational products that will be discounted 50 percent, as well as all American Girl and Klutz products. All bookcases and other fixtures will also be for sale.
Pam’s Paperbacks opened in 1990 on Boston Road in Springfield, and moved to the Post Office Park in Wilbraham in 1999. With its wide range and selection of children’s books, the store was very popular among area teachers and librarians. Aronson’s policy of buying used books for credits toward future purchases resulted in a loyal following of active readers and local book clubs.
Aronson commented on the closing of Pam’s Paperbacks, “It was a wonderful experience and a great way to make a living  there’s nothing quite as satisfying as being surrounded by books and book-lovers every day. But the competition from the Internet and from e-books makes it too difficult for a small store, no matter how much fun you’re having. So 21 years is enough. It’s time to move on to other things.”
She advised bargain hunters to visit the store as soon as possible in January for the best selection because, at the liquidation prices, she believes that the entire inventory will be sold in January. She also advises any local authors who still have consignment books at Pam’s, to come in and pick up their remaining books.
Pam’s Paperbacks will be open in January, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.